Relocating a Squirrel 
In most states, releasing squirrels is illegal, and a permit is required. However, there are certain guidelines you should follow if you do plan on relocating a mother or baby squirrel. These guidelines are valid for release during mid-winter or spring. In some cases, you can release a squirrel farther away from your home. For more information, see Relocating a squirrel. A mother or baby squirrel should be released in mid-winter.
Relocating a mother squirrel
Relocating a mother squirrel is a difficult task. It requires convincing the animal to leave her home territory and relocate to an area with a high concentration of other squirrels. In addition, there are legal restrictions governing the relocation of animals. A single female squirrel, for example, will abandon her babies if you relocate her. Unless you can get her to relocate to an area where she is not likely to be caught again, relocation can be a costly process.
Relocating a mother squirrel is most successful when the baby squirrels are still dependent on the mother. The baby squirrels cannot survive without their mother and require special treatment. Besides, the relocation process is humane. While it is possible to trap the mother squirrel, it is not recommended. This can result in causing severe damage to the baby squirrels. Instead, relocate the mother squirrel and her babies to an area where the baby squirrels are safe.
Relocating a baby squirrel
Relocating a baby squirrel is something you should do as soon as possible after capturing it. Although it is illegal to release a squirrel on public land, it is best to take it to a wooded area with water sources. If there are no such places, you can release it in an underdeveloped area. Either way, it will need a place to live and will most likely need a few weeks to adjust to its new home.
First, relocating the animal is easier said than done. Young squirrels don’t know the local terrain. They won’t know where food and water are, whether there are predators in the area, and how to get out and about. You must also convince other squirrels to move into the area. This way, you won’t have to worry about the baby squirrel being harmed or injured. If you have a pet squirrel, relocating it is not an option, because there are more likely to be new ones living there.
Relocating a squirrel in mid-winter
Relocating a squirrel in mid-wInter is a potentially life-threatening situation. Since these creatures live in the wild and depend on their food cache to survive the winter, it is best to avoid relocation if you can. But there are ways to remove the squirrel, including by removing its cap. Follow the tips below to relocate a squirrel in mid-winter. And remember: relocation is better than certain death!
First, make sure that the squirrel is no longer pregnant. In addition to not chasing it out, you need to make sure that the squirrel has no nests or young. A mother squirrel will wait until her babies are old enough to leave the nest. Once the babies have left the nest, however, it is safe to relocate them. The babies will be safe when they’ve been foraging outside for at least two or three weeks.
Relocating a squirrel in spring
Relocating a squirrel in spring can be challenging. These animals are territorial and will defend their territory by attacking and chasing newcomers. Consequently, the majority of squirrels that are freed suffer painful deaths due to stress, starvation, and other causes. Furthermore, if released far enough away from the home, most will return home malnourished with parts missing. Ultimately, relocating a squirrel is not an easy task, and you should seek professional help to ensure that the entire process is safe for all parties involved.
While relocating a squirrel in spring is not the best choice, the alternative to death is more palatable. This is because squirrels are reliant on their food caches to survive the winter. So, moving them mid-winter would almost guarantee their demise. If you’re in a hurry to relocate your squirrel, you might want to try dropping it off at night, when it’s less likely to be attacked.
What is the ideal distance to release a squirrel?
The ideal distance to release a squirrel is at least 5 miles from your home.
How Far Should You Release a Squirrel?
You should release a squirrel at least 5 miles from your home.
How many miles should you release a squirrel?
At least 5 miles.
Is it harmful to release a squirrel close to your home?
Yes releasing a squirrel close to your home can cause problems because the squirrel may try to return to your property and cause damage.
What are the consequences of releasing a squirrel too close to your home?
If you release a squirrel too close to your home the squirrel may try to return and cause damage to your property.
What is the best way to release a squirrel?
The best way to release a squirrel is to take it at least 5 miles away from your home and release it in a park or natural area.
Can I release a squirrel in my backyard?
No you should not release a squirrel in your backyard because it may try to return to your property and cause damage.
Can I release a squirrel in a park?
Yes releasing a squirrel in a park is a good option because the squirrel will have a better chance ofsurviving in a natural environment.
Should I release a squirrel in the woods?
Yes releasing a squirrel in the woods is a good option because the squirrel will have a better chance of surviving in a natural environment.
What happens if I release a squirrel and it comes back?
If a squirrel comes back after you release it it may cause damage to your property.
Do I have to release a squirrel?
No you are not required to release a squirrel but it is the best option for the squirrel.
What should I do with a squirrel if I don’t want to release it?
If you don’t want to release a squirrel you can contact a wildlife rehabilitator who can take care of the squirrel.
How do I find a wildlife rehabilitator?
You can search for a wildlife rehabilitator online or in the phone book.
How much does it cost to have a wildlife rehabilitator take care of a squirrel?
The cost of having a wildlife rehabilitator take care of a squirrel varies but it is typically around $150.
Is it illegal to release a squirrel?
No it is not illegal to release a squirrel but you should check with your local laws to be sure.
Jessica Watson is a PHD holder from the University of Washington. She studied behavior and interaction between squirrels and has presented her research in several wildlife conferences including TWS Annual Conference in Winnipeg.
